Motorcycles are fun, sleek, and speedy machines that can conveniently weave through traffic and get you from point A to B more affordably than a car. Unfortunately, due to their nature leaving the operator more exposed, they’re also pretty deadly machines as well. The NHTSA approximates that 80 percent of all motorcycle accidents result in serious injury or death, and that motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in crashes than traditional car drivers.
That’s a pretty high risk, but are there any types of motorcycles that face a greater risk of such mortality rates than others, and do you have any legal recourse after such accidents? The following piece will broach those two questions.
Cruiser Bikes
Ultimately, neither NHTSA nor similar organizations quantify motorcycle accident rates by types of motorcycles. But we can quantify the unique risks that may be associated with unique bikes, and one of the most ubiquitous bikes on the road is the cruiser. Your classic, Harley-esque motorcycle with its relaxed low seating and high wheels make these ideal starter rides for beginners.
It’s harder to throttle, pop wheelies, or do anything particularly extreme on a cruiser, which is another plus for amateurs. Still, their commonality may be part of the reason why they appear to be more prevalent in accidents.
Sport Bikes
Sport bikes are the sleekest, and by consequence, the speediest type of motorcycle you’ll find on the road. The consumer sport bike with the highest top speed, the Kawasaki Ninja, can be gunned up to 249 miles per hour. That’s a lot of horsepower and able to wreak a lot of havoc in the wrong hands.
These types of bikes are also the most aerodynamic type of motorcycle, and thus, the most susceptible to sending man and mechanical debris flying.
Touring Bikes
Wide frame bikes designed exclusively for open road riding, touring motorcycles are the weightiest bipedal machines you’ll find on the road. The heaviest tourers you’ll find will boast up to 900 pounds of torque, weight designed to keep the bike upright and reinforce a stable riding experience. Unfortunately, this weight can make accidents that much more painful when stability is lost.
If you lose balance on a touring cycle and slide onto one side, that could equate to nearly half a ton of force being exerted onto your leg, and there can be some serious physical and financial losses in store. Moreover, if another person’s or entity’s negligence led to the crash, then they could be liable to pay:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Repair expenses
- Losses associated with suffering
How do you hold them accountable?
Consult with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Now
Any type of motorcycle is capable of danger, and scraping pavement will hurt regardless of which vehicle sent you there. Whether a motorcyclist recklessly barreled into you, or you’re a motorcyclist who was victimized by another person’s recklessness, you may be entitled to receive compensation in a personal injury case.
The statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim in the state of California is two years, but don’t wait. Speak to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney right away to get started protecting your rights.